A massive sunspot, comparable in size to the one responsible for the historic Carrington Event of 1859, has emerged on the sun and is currently facing Earth, raising concerns about potential severe space weather impacts. Scientists are closely monitoring the region, designated AR3590, as it has already unleashed a powerful X2.8 class solar flare.
This advancement arrives amid an already active solar cycle, with 2024 witnessing a record-breaking number of X-class flares – the most potent type - since modern monitoring began in 1996. The increased solar activity elevates the risk of geomagnetic storms, which can disrupt satellite communications, power grids, and navigation systems, and produce breathtaking auroral displays visible at lower latitudes than usual. A recent G4 (severe) geomagnetic storm impacted Earth between November 11-12, and further disturbances are anticipated as the sunspot rotates further toward our planet.
The sunspot’s size and magnetic complexity are especially noteworthy.The Carrington Event, the largest recorded geomagnetic storm, caused widespread telegraph system failures. While modern technology is more resilient, a similar-scale event today could have far-reaching consequences. The recent extreme geomagnetic storm in May 2024, the strongest in over two decades, triggered some of the most widespread auroras observed in centuries, demonstrating the potential for significant disruption.
Throughout 2024, numerous flares have instigated geomagnetic storms on Earth. NASA scientists have indicated that the auroras experienced following the May event may have been the strongest in 500 years, and are continuing to study the phenomenon. The current sunspot poses a renewed threat, and ongoing observation is crucial to predict and mitigate potential impacts.
